Borja Gross
Spain
Borja Gross is a Spanish professional poker player known for his versatility in cash games, tournaments, and Sit & Go formats. He rose to prominence by winning the first Spanish Top Shark Academy and joining Team Winamax. With WSOP Main Event cashes and a background in physics, Gross brings a disciplined, analytical approach to the felt.
Introduction
Borja Gross, also known online as "Timotyy", is a Spanish professional poker player from Málaga. Born in the early 1990s, he turned his passion for poker into a full-time career after discovering the game in 2011. Known for his adaptability and strong mental game, Gross has competed internationally and earned notable results in both live and online events.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Gross began playing poker in 2011 during his university years, organizing home games with friends and devouring online training videos. A key turning point came when he joined an online academy and learned about expected value (EV), which fundamentally changed his approach to the game. While studying physics at the University of Madrid, he worked as a dealer at the Baden-Baden casino in Germany during an Erasmus exchange. This experience deepened his understanding of poker but also fueled his desire to play professionally. In 2013, he made the pivotal decision to drop out of university and pursue poker full-time, traveling to Uruguay to train with top players such as GerardX, Davaman, and Deilor.
Professional Journey
After his South American training, Gross moved to Bournemouth, England, to further his career. He became a regular in online cash games (NL400-1K) and live tournaments, including EPT stops in London and Barcelona, as well as LAPT events in Chile, Uruguay, and Brazil. In 2020, Gross won the first edition of the Spanish Top Shark Academy, earning a spot on Team Winamax alongside Adrián Mateos and Leo Margets. This partnership allowed him to focus on his game and travel the global tournament circuit.
Major Tournament Results
Gross's most notable live performance came at the 2015 World Series of Poker Main Event, where he finished 509th out of 6,420 entrants for $19,500. He has six WSOP cashes overall, with additional results in 2021 including:
- 14th place in Event #71: Bounty Pot-Limit Omaha ($5,523)
- 47th place in Event #79: Poker Hall of Fame Bounty No-Limit Hold'em ($3,859)
- 109th place in Event #70: Crazy Eights No-Limit Hold'em ($3,330)
- 109th place in Event #83: The Closer ($4,317)
- 109th place in Event #86: Super Turbo ($1,757) His total live earnings exceed $38,000.
Playing Style and Approach
Gross describes himself as a versatile "chameleon" player, equally comfortable in cash games, multi-table tournaments, and Expresso Sit & Go formats. He emphasizes bankroll management and discipline, learning from early mistakes like moving up in stakes too quickly. His philosophy is captured in his motto: "We don't choose the cards we are dealt, but we do choose how to play them." He credits his success to a holistic approach that includes mental preparation, physical health, and continuous study.
Life Outside Poker
When not at the tables, Gross is a self-taught entrepreneur with interests in trading, investing, economics, and philosophy. He currently resides in Lombok, Indonesia, and continues to compete professionally while mentoring others through the Winamax academy.
Legacy
Borja Gross represents the modern, well-rounded poker professional who combines technical skill with a global perspective. His journey from university student to Team Winamax member inspires aspiring players, proving that dedication and adaptability can lead to success in the competitive world of poker.
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